You may know that fingerprints are a unique identifier for individual people but you might now know why. Below are the main characteristics of a fingerprint:

Arches:

An arch is when the ridge of the fingerprint starts from one side of the fingerprint then goes to the other side without curving back.

2 types of arches can be documents. A Tent Arch is when the arch goes upward and looks like the top of a tent. A Plain Arch motions like waves.

Loops:

The loop pattern flows within the fingerprint when ridges start from one side, loops around and goes back to the same side it started from.

There are 2 types of loops: the Ulnar Loop and the Radial Loop. These two different types of loops are distinguished by the direction that the loop is going. The Ulna Loop is when the direction of the loop is coming from the thumb, going to the little finger. The Radial Loop goes from the little finger towards the thumb.

Whorls:

The whorl pattern comprises concentrated circles on the finger. There are 4 different types of whorl patterns; Plain Whorl, Central Pocket Loop Whorl, Double Loop Whorl, and the Accidental Whorl.

Alexis Roberts

Hi! I, Alexis (Blogger, Web Site and Brochure Designer) love biometrics, coming up with productive ideas after a couple cups of coffee, and getting my hands dirty in the garden after horticulture classes!